Hundreds of Buddhists from many traditions, and the public as well, will join in Pittsburgh's 9th Annual Vesak, a worldwide celebration which honors the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, the Enlightened One. Over the past 8 years, our gathering has grown to be a joyous occasion, filled with colorful flowers and the beautiful teachings and practices shared by many traditions in a collective Sangha ceremony.

This year's theme - Many Petals, One Lotus - seeks to recognize our inherent oneness, grounded in our Buddha Nature. Participants can help bathe the Baby Buddha, offering their prayers for peace within the water, which will later be processed to the Allegheny River. A shared service, held within the Allegheny Unitarian Church, will feature prayers, chants, Dharma teachings and practices from each of the local Buddhist traditions. A festive procession to the river will follow. Light refreshments will also be available for attendees.